Little Baldy Mountain - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Little Baldy Mountain in Park County, Colorado is a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and simply enjoying the great outdoors. The summit of Little Baldy Mountain provides stunning views of the surrounding area, and there are several easy-to- moderate trails that wind through the nearby forests. In addition, the park offers a variety of amenities such as picnic tables and rest rooms. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing day in nature, Little Baldy Mountain is sure to please.

Little Baldy Mountain is a summit in Park County, Colorado. The mountain is located in the Mosquito Range, southeast of Hoosier Pass. Little Baldy Mountain was originally named Mount Lincoln by prospectors in 1862, but was renamed in 1873 by surveyors for the U.S. Geological Survey. The mountain's name is derived from its small size and bald appearance.

Despite its small stature, Little Baldy Mountain is an important part of Colorado's history. In 1859, gold was discovered in Rocky Mountain National Park, sparking the Pike's Peak Gold Rush. Thousands of prospectors flocked to the area in search of fortune, and many of them camped on or near Little Baldy Mountain. In addition, the mountain was used as a trail marker by settlers traveling west on the Overland Trail. Today, a plaque commemorating the Overland Trail can be found at the summit of Little Baldy Mountain.

Despite its historical significance, Little Baldy Mountain remains a relatively unknown and unvisited summit. However, those who do make the effort to hike to the top are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding Mosquito Range. So next time you're looking for a quiet place to enjoy some peace and solitude, consider heading to Little Baldy Mountain.

The best time to visit Little Baldy Mountain is in the summertime when the weather is warm and the wildflowers are in bloom. hikers and climbers can take advantage of the mild temperatures to enjoy the outdoors.

1. Do some research before you go. Little Baldy Mountain is a large park, and there's a lot to see and do. By doing some research in advance, you can make sure you don't miss anything important.
2. Start early. The early bird gets the worm, as they say. This is especially true at Little Baldy Mountain, where many of the best trails and views are crowded with people by mid-day.
3. Dress for the weather. Colorado can have extreme weather conditions, so it's important to be prepared for anything. If you're hiking in the summer, make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water. In the winter, packed snow and ice can make trails treacherous, so dress appropriately and be prepare for slippery conditions.
4. If you're visiting during the summer months, be aware of the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. Try to hike early in the day to avoid them if possible.
5. Pack out your trash. Please help keep the mountain clean by packing out all your trash, including food scraps and cigarette butts.
6. Leave rocks and other natural objects where you found them . Help preserve the natural beauty of the mountain by leaving rocks, flowers, and other objects undisturbed.

1. Little Baldy Mountain is the highest peak in Park County, Colorado and at an elevation of 12,441 feet, it is also one of the tallest mountains in the state.

2. In summer, wildflowers blanket the mountain's slopes in a colorful display and the views from the summit of Little Baldy Mountain include Pike's Peak, Mount Evans, and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. 

3. Little Baldy Mountain is a relatively easy hike by Colorado standards, making it a popular choice for beginners and families with small children."

4. The mountain was formed millions of years ago by the forces of plate tectonics.

5. The summit of Little Baldy Mountain can be reached by car via a scenic 4x4 road.  In the winter, the road is often closed due to snowfall, but cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities in the area. 

 However, depending on the hikers' pace and ability to navigate off-trail terrain, it could take anywhere from 4-6 hours to explore the entire mountain. 

To reach Little Baldy Mountain in Park County, Colorado, take Highway 285 south from Denver. After about an hour, you'll reach the town of Fairplay. From Fairplay, continue south on Highway 285 for another 23 miles. Then, turn left onto County Road 12 and follow it for 6 miles until you reach the trailhead.

There is no entrance fee to explore Little Baldy Mountain in Park County, Colorado. However, there is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle.

The mountain is open year-round, but hours vary seasonally. In the summer, the mountain is open from sunrise to sunset, while in the winter it is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.